Did The Last of Us Just Ruin Its Most Shocking Twist Too Soon? Why Revealing Abby’s Secret Early Might Be a Big Mistake

When HBO’s The Last of Us premiered, fans praised its faithfulness to the beloved video game while still leaving room for bold storytelling choices. But with Season 2 already making waves long before its release, one major creative decision has sparked backlash: the early reveal of Abby’s biggest secret—her role in Joel’s death.

For many, this reveal is more than just a plot point. It’s the emotional centerpiece of The Last of Us Part II, delivered in-game with devastating timing and careful buildup. The shock, grief, and fury players felt when witnessing Joel’s murder firsthand—before even understanding Abby’s motives—was part of what made the narrative so polarizing, powerful, and unforgettable. By front-loading that revelation in the show’s promotional material and interviews, the series has removed a crucial emotional element for new viewers.

Why It Mattered in the Game

In TLOU Part II, players began by seeing the world through Ellie’s eyes, assuming Abby was just a brutal antagonist. Only later did they walk in Abby’s shoes and learn her complex motivations. That narrative flip didn’t just build suspense—it challenged players morally. It was risky storytelling at its best. But that moral ambiguity hinges on not knowing who Abby is at the start.

The Cost of an Early Reveal

By revealing Abby’s identity and her connection to Joel early in the show’s marketing cycle, the showrunners may have robbed themselves of one of the story’s strongest emotional punches. For longtime fans, it feels like a spoiler. For newcomers, it undercuts the dramatic irony and emotional betrayal they could have experienced firsthand.

Can Season 2 Still Succeed?

Absolutely. HBO has proven it can deliver gripping, thoughtful television. But the early reveal may mean Season 2 will need to work even harder to recapture that same gut-punch impact the game delivered—without the element of surprise.

In a story built around grief, revenge, and empathy, timing is everything. Let’s hope the show still finds a way to make us feel every beat as deeply as the game once did.